Discussion Worksheet #6
Substitution Reactions
Skill 1: Draw arrow mechanisms for substitution reactions
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Given starting material and products, determine whether the reaction is Sn1 or Sn2 using
stereochemistry and rearrangements
Sn2 is a one step, 2 arrow mechanism with alkyl halides.
Sn1 is a two step, 2 arrow mechanism (often followed by a deprotonation step) with alkyl
halides.
Problem 1: Label each as Sn1 or Sn2. Provide arrow mechanisms for each reaction, and draw an
energy diagram assuming an overall exothermic process.
Problem 2. Provide a mechanism for each of these Sn2 reactions. Draw a transition state
structure for each reaction.
Skill 2: Weigh the factors that favor and disfavor substitution reactions. Predict whether a
reaction will be Sn1 or Sn2
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First, consider the substrate.
o Primary carbocations will not form (no Sn1)
o Tertiary carbons are too hindered for direct attack (no Sn2)
o Sp2 centers will not undergo either Sn1 or Sn2
Next, consider the nucleophile
o Strong nucleophiles favor Sn2 if possible
o Weak nucleophiles (typically solvolysis) must wait for Sn1
Finally, consider solvent
o Polar aprotic favors Sn2 by destabilizing the nucleophile
o Polar protic favors Sn1 by stabilizing the carbocation
Problem 3. Consider all factors that would increase or decrease the rate of each of these
substitution reacitons (leaving group, nucleophile, solvent, substrate.) Predict whether eact
reaction will happen in a reasonable timeframe.
Problem 4. Will the following reaction go through an Sn1mechanism, an Sn2 mechanism, or not
proceed as written? Explain how you came to this conclusion.
Skill 3: Predict the products of a substitution reaction, including stereochemistry
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Sn2 reactions will lead to inversion of stereochemistry
Sn1 reactions can lead to stereochemical mixtures
Problem 5. Predict the products of each of these substitution reactions, or write no reaction.
Problem 6. A slight change in the nucleophile used in this reaction leads to difference in products
because the mechanism changes. Draw the product(s) of each reaction.
Skill 4: Provide reagents for substitution reactions
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Be sure to consider stereochemical outcomes in determining the starting material to use
for a substitution
If the starting material is a nucleophile, add an electrophile, and vice versa
You must use an acid if the leaving group is poor (hydroxyl group.)
Problem 7. Treating S-2-chlorobutane with NaI leads to an optically active product, but the same
reaction with S-3-chloro-3-methylhexane does not. Explain.
Problem 8. Provide the reagents or starting materials necessary to produce the indicated
products.